Big cats of the world
The world’s big cats are some of the most iconic and captivating creatures on the planet. From the majestic and elusive snow leopard to the fierce and powerful lion, these apex predators have fascinated us for centuries with their grace, strength, and beauty. But despite their allure, many of these species face serious threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
As top predators, big cats play an essential role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, regulating prey populations, and promoting biodiversity. But their conservation is not only important for the health of the planet – it is also a matter of ethical responsibility.
Species are sorted by conservation status.
Tiger
With only 3,000 in the wild and 10,000 in captivity in the U.S., tigers are increasingly being treated as Selfie props than actual wildlife
With some individuals weighing over 270 kg (600 pounds) and measuring up to 3 m (10 ft) in length, they truly are the kings of the big cats.
Leopard
Disappearing graceful shadows, this tree-climber is on the way to extinction
Although smaller than other big cats, these sleek and stealthy assassins are still powerful hunters, with some reaching up to 59 kg (130 pounds).
Snow leopard
The vanishing big cat of the cold, rugged Himalaya mountains is being executed by the humans
They can weigh up to 54 kg (120 pounds) and have powerful legs that can leap up to 15 m (50 ft) in a single bound.
Cheetah
Racing to extinction: historically ranging throughout Africa to India, now distributed in small, fragmented populations
They may be smaller than other big cats, weighing up to 64 kg (140 pounds) but they are capable of reaching up to 113 km/h (70 mph).
Jaguar
This solitary cat is America’s largest feline and the world’s third, after the tiger and the lion
Jaguars are the largest cats in the Americas, with males weighing up to 158 kg (350 pounds) and measuring up to 2 m (6 ft).
